Prayer: Jesus Gives Cautions

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Dr. Kevin McKee Sermon Notes

June 10, 2012 The Chapel on the Campus

Prayer: Connecting with God

Prayer: Jesus Gives Cautions Matthew 6:5-8 (ESV) “And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 6 But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” 7

How to Become a Christian Many people believe they are Christians because they were born in a Christian culture, go to church regularly, try to do their best, or live a good life. However, the Bible teaches that these things cannot make you a Christian. You become a Christian by simply taking these two steps: • Acknowledge that you (along with all people) have sinned and fallen short of God’s standards. Romans 3:23 • Personally believe that Jesus Christ, who was God in human flesh, died for your sins on the cross and rose again. 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4 You may express your belief through prayer, asking Jesus to come into your life, and receiving Him as God’s gift to you. John 1:12, Romans 6:23, Revelation 3:20 Ephesians 2:8, 9 (NIV) For it is by grace you have been saved through

Caution: Don’t pray like a ___________. • The poser/hypocrite • Hypocrisy in church produces internal performance. • Hypocrisy in public produces external phonies.

Precaution • In prayer, have an _________________ of affection toward God over ______________ seeking human approval. • In prayer, pursue a ______________ posture over a __________ performance. • In prayer, enjoy God’s ______________ no others ________.

Caution: Don’t pray with empty __________. • Many words in prayer seek to ________________ God not meet with Him.

Precaution: Pray with God as a loving father.

faith...it is the gift of God; not by works, so that no one can boast.